Just wanted to note for anybody who does not have a photo editing software that you can download a really good program called paint.net at the following link.... Paint.net

Step by Step as Follows....

1.click on url2.click on getpaint.net on upper right hand corner3.click get it now (free download) Paint.net V3.364.scroll down to middle of page until you see Download, move over to fifth column and click on one of the three download boxes5.click on Paint.net V3.36 to download program

**You will need the Winrar zip file program to unzip and extract the files**

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The opinions in my posts are of my own and do not represent those of the USAF.

If you want a truly professional looking map, buying Photoshop is the way to go. I only have paint, so my maps don't look so great, but they get the point across. I'm buying Photoshop once I get a laptop before I go to college.

I'll post a step-by-step on how to get a decent looking map using Paint once I have more time.

Use GIMP, it's Photoshop w/o all some of the finer features that most people won't use. AND, you don't have to pay like $200-$800, its free. Play around with it and eventually you'll learn how to use it. If you've used Photoshop, it works the same way.

This post has been edited by WinterStromDrought: Jan 24 2009, 04:49 PM

I think a lot of people probably use Windows Paint, Paint Shop Pro, or Photoshop. SnagIt actually has some neat functions which you can use to draw areas.

Non-artists at AccuWeather such as Henry, Elliot and myself have been using SnagIt quite a bit lately, it's a great program for doing screen caps and tutorials too (such as the Facebook tutorial I have on my blog right now).

Normally I'd recommend photshop (it provides the most professional look), but if you don't have it, paint (or painting programs) works just as well.

QUOTE(SEMIweather @ Jan 24 2009, 02:28 PM)

If you want a truly professional looking map, buying Photoshop is the way to go. I only have paint, so my maps don't look so great, but they get the point across. I'm buying Photoshop once I get a laptop before I go to college.

I'll post a step-by-step on how to get a decent looking map using Paint once I have more time.

QUOTE(WinterStromDrought @ Jan 24 2009, 06:49 PM)

Use GIMP, it's Photoshop w/o all some of the finer features that most people won't use. AND, you don't have to pay like $200-$800, its free. Play around with it and eventually you'll learn how to use it. If you've used Photoshop, it works the same way.

i use GIMP for mine but i do have photoshop. I only like to use photoshop with a stylus pen! That is what makes it awesome but they are to impratical for me. GIMP works just as great! I have even tried it with illustrator. Doesn't work so well... When i try to put in a map i made on photoshop it says that it is too big of a file to put on this website. So i personally think GIMP is better, doesn't take up a huge file space like photoshop!

Just wanted to note for anybody who does not have a photo editing software that you can download a really good program called paint.net at the following link.... Paint.net

Step by Step as Follows....

1.click on url2.click on getpaint.net on upper right hand corner3.click get it now (free download) Paint.net V3.364.scroll down to middle of page until you see Download, move over to fifth column and click on one of the three download boxes5.click on Paint.net V3.36 to download program

**You will need the Winrar zip file program to unzip and extract the files**